Das Racist

Das Racist’s first single was a comical, stripped-down bit of junk-culture that couldn’t even decide whether it was set at a Pizza Hut or a Taco Bell, a fitting start for a band that has made uncategorizability part of its brand. White or black? Neither. Himanshu “Heems” Suri and hypeman Ashok “Dapwell” Kondabolu are Indian, while Victor “Kool A.D.” Vazquez is a blend of Afro-Cuban and Italian. Upper or underclass? Both. Suri grew up in working class Queens, met at Vazquez at upscale Wesleyan, and they now play to an educated, creative-class audience. Smart or stupid? Sure, yes, both. They spin intricate, reference-packed riffs on flotsam like Michael Jackson, Billy Joel and Google. Das Racist is so ironic and post-everything that you can’t figure out who the joke is on. Chances are, it’s probably you. -Jennifer Kelly